The future of mobile connectivity in the UK just got even faster. Virgin Media O2 has announced plans to roll out mmWave 5G, a new generation of ultra-high-capacity mobile coverage capable of delivering speeds up to 4 Gbps — that’s fibre-level performance over the air.
But what exactly is mmWave, and what does it mean for everyday users and businesses?
What is mmWave 5G?
Most 5G in the UK today operates on mid-band spectrum, offering faster speeds and lower latency than 4G but still working over wide areas. mmWave (millimetre-wave) takes things further by using much higher radio frequencies — between 24 GHz and 40 GHz — to transmit vast amounts of data at lightning speed.
In simple terms, it’s the technology that allows thousands of people to stream, call, and upload simultaneously in the same location without the network slowing down.
Where it’s being launched?
Virgin Media O2 has invested £13million to acquire more spectrum and plans to deploy mmWave first in busy public places such as stadiums, train stations, airports, and city centres — places where standard 5G can sometimes struggle due to heavy demand. Over time, it’s expected to spread into business districts, shopping centres, and other high-density areas.
That means faster connectivity in the places you need it most — whether you’re uploading work files on the go, running video calls from a train platform, or streaming a match live from the stands.
What you’ll notice
- Faster downloads: Movies, updates, or large files can download in seconds.
- Better reliability in crowds: Ideal for events, festivals, or packed venues.
- Lower latency: Perfect for real-time apps like AR, gaming, or remote work tools.
- Future-ready: Supports next-gen business apps, IoT devices, and cloud services.
Do you need a new phone?
Only some newer handsets currently support mmWave — including the latest iPhone 17, Samsung Galaxy S25, and Google Pixel 9 models. If you’re considering an upgrade soon, look for “mmWave-ready” or “5G SA” in the spec list.
Why it matters
As mmWave rolls out, 5G will become more consistent, powerful, and capable of replacing certain fixed broadband connections for homes and businesses. It’s also a sign of what’s next — preparing networks for 6G and beyond.
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